John Lewis to cut 1,500 jobs

John Lewis is set to cut around 1,500 staff roles at its head office operations between now and April 2021, as part of the retail group’s ‘Partnership Plan’.

It is believed the cuts will save another £50m on top of £50m of recent efficiencies, in order to turn to sustainable profits by 2025.

As part of significant executive changes within the company, Patrick Lewis, the group’s executive director of finance, has decided to leave John Lewis after 26 years of service.

Bérangère Michel, currently the group’s executive director, will succeed Lewis in the role.

The size of the executive team is also set to be reduced , with the company deciding not to hire a new executive director for customer service. 

Sharon White, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “Our Partnership Plan sets a course to create a thriving and sustainable business for the future. To achieve this we must be agile and able to adapt quickly to the changing needs of our customers.

“Losing Partners is incredibly hard as an employee-owned business. Wherever possible, we will seek to find new roles in the Partnership and we’ll provide the best support and retraining opportunities for Partners who leave us.”

Lewis said: “I’ve felt very lucky to be part of a leadership team in such an extraordinary organisation. 

“I’m immensely proud of the role the Partnership plays in demonstrating a better way of doing business, and hugely grateful for the unstinting support I’ve had from colleagues over such a long period in furthering that goal.”

He added: “I’m delighted that Bérangère will be stepping into the role, bringing with her both a deep understanding and commitment to the Partnership, and valuable financial experience.”